We write to ask for your support of H.R. 550, the Merchant Mariners of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act. This bill would award a Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest honors in the United States, to Merchant Mariners who sustained our armed
forces during World War II.

These mariners put their lives on the line for this country, selflessly answering the nation’s call to duty. During World War II, our armed forces relied on the Merchant Marine to ferry supplies, cargo and personnel into both theaters of operation, and they
paid a heavy price in service to their country. The Merchant Marine suffered the highest per capita casualty rate than any other branch of the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. An estimated 8,300 mariners lost their lives, and another 12,000 were wounded,
to make sure our servicemembers could keep fighting. Yet, these Mariners who put their lives on the line were not even given veteran status until 1988.

Unfortunately, their sacrifice is commonly overlooked. It’s time that we give these courageous Mariners the recognition they have earned with the Congressional Gold Medal.